Story Time “Read Along” with LAPD Officers and Special Guest Book Signing with Children’s Book Author Jarrett J. Krosoczka

WHAT: Join LAPD Officers and their special guest, children’s book author Jarrett J. Krosoczka, for story time “Read Along” and book signing.

WHEN: Friday, May 20, 2016 3:30 p.m.

WHERE: Los Angeles Public Library, Vernon – Leon H. Washington Jr. Memorial Branch 4504 S. Central Avenue, Los Angeles, California 90011

WHO: Captain III Jorge Rodriguez, LAPD Newton Division Captain I Ruby F. Malachi, LAPD Community Relationship Division Police Officers from LAPD Community Relationship Division James Westbrooks, Director from Los Angeles City Council District 9 Jarrett J. Krosoczka, author and illustrator of more than 30 picture books

WHY: On Friday, February 5, 2016, Police Officers Chris McPheeters and Joe Oseguera, from LAPD’s Community Relationship Division (CRD) started the “Read Along” program at the Los Angeles Public Library, Vermont Square Branch. Since February, they have read to more than 550 children during their weekly “Read Alongs.”

“The “Read Along” program is growing quickly. We’re ready to expand to more library branches throughout the City and are hoping to include the LAPD patrol officers who work the area.” said Officer McPheeters.

According to Officer Oseguera, “Our goal is to build a strong relationship with the youngest members of our community while promoting a love of reading and learning. We’re especially grateful that Mr. Krosoczka will be joining us for this special event. Because of his participation, our kids will be treated to an afternoon of great memories and an experience of a lifetime.”

“The LAPD has done a remarkable job building the “Read Along” program for children across Los Angeles, and I am ecstatic to join them for this special event,” said author Jarrett J. Krosoczka.

During the event, Mr. Krosoczka will discuss the process of how he writes and illustrates his book Platypus Police Squad and Walden Pond Press will provide a complimentary signed copy of the book to each child in attendance. In addition, LAPD Officers will not only be reading from the Platypus Police Squad, but also acting out one of its chapters.

CONTACT: For more information, please contact Police Officers McPheeters or Oseguera, CRD at 213-486-6000. For press inquiries, please contact Lauren Camp, Walden Pond Press at 310-986-6632.